complaint·January 3, 2025

On January 03, 2025 at 11:15 AM, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Brian Morris arrived at the facility for the purpose of delivering findings on compliant investigation initiated on 11/12/24. Staff took census of 48 children in care and 13 staff onsite. LPA met with Licensee Rachel Smith and informed her of the purpose of the visit. During course of investigation, LPA completed interviews, onsite observations, and took a tour of the facility. LPA also inspected the facilities’ diaper changing areas. During interviews, LPA received information that the facility diaper changing policy is to change children’s diapers at least every two hours or as needed. Catalyst Kids – Menifee staff reported on the date of the incident, 11/08/2024, the facility had to evacuate at approximately 10:30AM due to an emergency and staff were rushed out of the classrooms for safety reasons and did not grab any diapering items. Further interviews revealed that the Riverside Fire Department had ordered all staff and children to exit the building and did not allow anyone to reenter the classrooms due to an unsafe Refrigerant Leak in the air conditioning system at Catalyst Kids – Menifee. Staff admitted that they were not able to change any children’s diapers while they were outside because they did not have any supplies and were hoping to get clearance to go back inside, but the evacuation lasted until 3:20PM so they eventually contacted parents to pick up their children. Based upon interviews and observations the allegation is Unsubstantiated. A finding of unsubstantiated means that although the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violation did or did not occur. An exit interview was conducted and a copy of this report, appeals rights and notice of site visit were provided to licensee. The Director Rachel Smith was reminded that the notice of site visit must remain posted for 30 consecutive days.